Celebrating the rich history of pranks at Bethel College

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Dear Visitor:

For the past 50-plus years, I’ve tried to keep life lively on the Bethel College campus. Whether it’s cows in Mantz Library or a snow lodge on the front steps of the Ad Building, there’s rarely a dull moment at Bethel. Though my wife Wilcia Knutz claims to be the brains behind many of my pranks, the guiding principles are always the same—pranks must not be harmful or destructive, participation in clean-up is a must, and no keys can be used. Oh, and it helps to keep Peter Goerzen, church relations director, in the loop so the administration doesn’t get too worked up.

As I’m getting on in years, I’ve begun collecting accounts of my pranks, but am afraid I may have missed a few. Perhaps you can help me out by adding your own photos and memories? Feel free to comment, add details and even rate the stories shared here. I wonder what would be the favorite Bethel College prank?

I know it is late notice, but I am wondering if you might be able to help me. I would like to invite all students, faculty, and staff to stop by my Fall Fest booth on Saturday. I will be autographing photos of me, and will also be offering kisses (for a donation) later in the day. Please stop by my booth for more information, or ask simply Dave Linscheid. The photos at my booth are just a preview of my upcoming calendar release.

Those of you in convo this morning may have noticed my contribution to the welcome program. If you found a balloon with someone’s name on it, please make an effort to find that person and give it to them. Check out the student directory.

I have managed to figure out my husband’s e-mail contraption and I am thrilled to finally write a letter to you. It seems that in past years, my husband has gotten quite a bit of attention throughout Bethel’s history. What most everyone doesn’t realize is that I am usually the brains behind Herman’s operations. Who am I, you ask? Why Mrs. Herman Bubbert of course! I wanted to let you know that girls play just as hard as the boys of my family and it is I who is behind this morning’s delightful artwork in front of the Ad Building. For those who are involved in administration, I do apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and encourage you to alert me at the very first opportunity if my glorious masterpiece is causing any mishaps. The artwork shall be removed within the next twenty-four hours.

I am thrilled as this is my first attempt at a public display. I encourage each and every one of you to take a moment to stop and admire my work — it’s here for a limited time only!

I realized today that I may have burdened you with an excess of easter eggs. I would be happy to dispose of them if you have not done so yourself. Before you leave the office on Tuesday, put the eggs outside the door where I left you the easter basket. By Wednesday morning, they will be out of your way. Thank you for collecting eggs; I hope your basket was overflowing with generosity.

Please forward this to the Bethel College students, faculty, and staff.

Easter is here! I, for one, am extremely excited about Easter this year. I have, however, noticed a surprisingly low amount of enthusiasm from the Bethel College student body. I think, perhaps, their day to day studies have dulled the passion and excitement that should accompany the coming of Easter. Wilcia (who is feeling much better now, thank you) and I decided to rectify this situation. What better way to revive the excitement of Easter than a good ol’ fashion Easter egg hunt?

We have hidden hundreds of eggs all around campus for your hunting enjoyment. There are also three, well hidden, golden eggs. Should you find one of these golden eggs, you will receive a special prize from Barry Bartel (upon presenting the golden egg). We also would like to request that the special instructions contained in certain eggs be followed. I’ve pulled out all the stops on this one so look EVERYWHERE!